The Zamora woodcat (Auchenipterichthys thoracatus) is a freshwater fish of the family Auchenipteridae that grows up to 14 cm.
Description
The zamora woodcat is a driftwood catfish (Auchenipteridae) from South America. The species has a stocky, dark body with pale spots, an adipose fin, barbels and stout, serrated pectoral and dorsal fin spines. It lives near the bottom in rivers and floodplains and shelters among driftwood and roots by day. Nocturnally it feeds on insects, small crustaceans and plant matter. The stout fin spines can give a painful puncture wound when handled.
Frequently asked questions
How do you recognise the Zamora woodcat?
The Zamora woodcat has an elongate, eel-like body, is mainly brown and shows a spots pattern. Dark with pale spots; nocturnal wood catfish that shelters in driftwood, stinging fin spines.
Where does the Zamora woodcat live?
The Zamora woodcat lives in fresh water and is mostly found around mixed bottom. South America; rivers and floodplains.
How big does the Zamora woodcat get?
The Zamora woodcat grows to a maximum of about 14 cm.
Is the Zamora woodcat dangerous to humans?
No, the Zamora woodcat is harmless to humans. Not venomous, but the stout pectoral and dorsal fin spines can inflict a painful puncture wound. Clean the wound thoroughly and seek medical care if it becomes infected.
Is the Zamora woodcat edible?
The Zamora woodcat is rarely eaten.

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All data
Identification
Appearance
Habitat & distribution
Behaviour & biology
For anglers
Safety
Status & sources
More from the family Auchenipteridae

Want the complete picture on the Zamora woodcat?
Point your camera at the fish and Fin names the species in seconds. Free, and the Zamora woodcat is one of 12,519 species in the app.